One of the problems with revivals is that they are lightning rods for spiritual activity of every kind. Not only do revivals illuminate the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, they also awaken the attention of the demonic principalities and powers in the heavenly realms.
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Eph. 6:10-12)
Believers not fully clothed in the Lord’s armor (Eph. 6:13-18) can easily fall prey to these evil powers and become deceived. Even strong believers who are not continually on their knees and living their lives in submission to the Holy Spirit, and to the godly counsel of their leaders (or peers), can easily find themselves victims of the “roaring lion.”
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” (1 Pet. 5:8-9)
After my friend Tom was delivered from demon oppression and homosexual behavior, I encountered evil spirits on several occasions. It was as if those demons kept coming back, tormenting and harassing me. At the time I was not spiritually mature enough to know what to do about it.
When I was walking back to my ship from where the exorcism of Tom took place, I could sense the evil spirits swirling around me. It was terrifying. When I got aboard the ship and went down to my berthing compartment, I lay down in my bed and I could sense the spirits again, swirling and hovering over me. They were infuriated that they had to leave their host, Tom. They came back to torment me for having something to do with them not having a body to inhabit. Not being a mature Christian, I lay there trembling in fear all night, praying the best I knew how.
Chet celebrated Thanksgiving with this family in
St. Petersburg. Jerry, the guy on the right, was
instrumental in Chet’s salvation. November 1979
Several weeks later I went with a friend to celebrate Thanksgiving at his grandparents’ home in St. Petersburg, Florida. During the night it happened again, the spirits came and were tormenting me. This time it was much worse. While I was trying to sleep, the bed began to bounce and shake. I couldn’t stay in that room alone—I was too scared. I went to my friend’s room, woke him up, and told him what was going on. Neither of us was mature enough to deal with the situation, so I slept in his room for the night.
Being involved in a revival and participating in exorcisms without being mature enough to deal with the fallout can be disturbing.
If you are not living a sanctified and victorious lifestyle, and if you are not trained to deal with demonic activity, let me give you a little advice—let someone else tend to that business!
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